The term “homicide” generally refers to those instances where one person is criminally responsible for the death of another person. Those left to deal with the aftermath of homicide are sometimes referred to as co-victims. This is a term that often refers to family and friends of the person who was killed. The time period following a homicide can be very difficult for co-victims. Marion County Victim Assistance offers and provides services to co-victims of homicide in many ways. This may include a trained victim advocate:

delivering death notification to family members in a respectful and caring manner;

providing skilled crisis intervention if needed;

being a source of comfort and support;

assisting co-victims in the process of funeral arrangements by helping them fill out an application for Crime Victims’ Compensationand facilitating collaboration with funeral home and medical examiner if needed;

assisting co-victims through the investigation and prosecution process by keeping them informed of developments and updates on their case;

ensuring co-victims are aware of their rights within the criminal justice process and assisting them in exercising those rights;

facilitating introduction to the deputy district attorney who will be prosecuting the case and arranging a meeting if desired;

providing accompaniment to court hearings or trials when co-victims choose to attend; and

providing information about grief support groups or counseling referrals if needed.

Some co-victims find it helpful to seek counseling to help them cope with the grief and trauma connected to the homicide. Many people find that until they receive intervention for the trauma they may have experienced, they can not really begin the process of grieving. In looking for a counselor it is important to find one who has training and experience working with grief and trauma. This enables the counselor to provide you with the best response to your experience and loss.

If you or someone you know is dealing with the homicide of a loved one and you need additional information or support, you are welcome to contact Victim Assistance at 503-588-5253 or toll free at 1-866-780-0960.